Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Teeth Removal in New Westminster, BC

Sometimes a tooth cannot be saved, or it is causing problems that are best solved by removing it. At Sapperton Dental in New Westminster, we provide tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal with a focus on comfort, clear explanations and careful aftercare. Dr. Sandeep Sachdeva has a special interest in dental surgery, and our team will always discuss whether a tooth can be kept before recommending removal.

When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

Your dentist may recommend removing a tooth when:

Decay or a fracture has damaged the tooth too much to repair with a filling, crown or root canal
Advanced gum disease has loosened the tooth
A wisdom tooth is impacted (trapped under the gum or bone) or only partly erupted
A tooth is causing repeated infection, swelling or pain
Crowding needs to be resolved before orthodontic treatment
A baby tooth has not fallen out and is blocking the adult tooth

Wisdom Teeth Removal in New Westminster

Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come in, usually in the late teens or early twenties. Many people do not have enough room for them. When a wisdom tooth cannot erupt properly, it can trap food and bacteria, irritate the gum, push against neighbouring teeth or become infected.

Common signs of wisdom tooth problems include:

Pain or pressure at the back of the jaw
Swollen, tender or bleeding gums behind the last molar
Bad taste or bad breath that keeps coming back
Difficulty opening your mouth fully

Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. We take X-rays to see the position of each tooth and its roots, then explain whether removal is recommended now, later, or not at all. Complex cases may be referred to an oral surgeon.

What to Expect During an Extraction

Assessment: we review your medical history and medications, examine the tooth and take X-rays.
Freezing: local anaesthetic numbs the area so you feel pressure but not pain. If you are anxious, ask about our sedation options.
Removal: a simple extraction removes a visible tooth in one piece. A surgical extraction may be needed for impacted or broken teeth.
Aftercare: we place gauze to control bleeding and give you written instructions before you leave.

Recovery and Aftercare

Bite gently on gauze for the first hour to help a blood clot form.
Avoid rinsing, spitting, smoking and drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours, since these can dislodge the clot.
Use a cold compress on the outside of the face to reduce swelling.
Eat soft foods and chew on the other side for a few days.
After the first day, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
Take pain medication only as directed by your dentist or pharmacist.

Mild swelling and tenderness are normal for a few days. Call us if you have bleeding that will not stop, increasing pain after day three, fever, or swelling that keeps getting worse. If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, go to the nearest emergency department.

Replacing a Missing Tooth

After a back tooth or front tooth is removed, neighbouring teeth can shift over time. We can talk through replacement options such as dental implants, bridges or dentures. Wisdom teeth usually do not need to be replaced.

Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed or Kept?

Removal is not automatic. We look at how each wisdom tooth is positioned, whether it can be cleaned properly, and whether it is affecting nearby teeth.

Often kept: fully erupted, upright wisdom teeth that you can brush and floss, with healthy gums around them. These are monitored at regular check-ups.
Often removed: teeth that cause repeated gum infection (pericoronitis), decay that cannot be repaired, damage to the neighbouring molar, or a cyst around the tooth.
Watch and wait: partly formed or impacted teeth with no symptoms may simply be checked on X-rays over time.

Removing problem wisdom teeth in the late teens or twenties is often easier, because the roots are not fully formed and healing tends to be quicker.

Preparing for Your Extraction

Tell us about all medications and supplements, especially blood thinners, and any heart, bleeding or bone conditions.
Eat a light meal beforehand unless you have been told otherwise for sedation.
If you are having sedation, arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home.
Stock up on soft foods such as yogurt, soup, eggs, mashed potatoes and smoothies (eaten with a spoon, not a straw).

Cost and Insurance

The cost of an extraction depends on whether it is simple or surgical, how many teeth are removed, whether X-rays are needed and whether sedation is used. A fully erupted tooth is usually less involved than an impacted wisdom tooth.

Many dental plans cover part of the cost of extractions, but coverage varies. Ask us for a written treatment estimate that you can send to your insurer before booking, so you know what to expect.

Your Dentists

Extractions are assessed and planned by our dentists, Dr. Sandeep Sachdeva and Dr. Sarika Sachdeva. If a case is better handled by an oral surgeon, we will tell you and arrange the referral.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a tooth extraction hurt?

The area is fully frozen, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain during the procedure. Some soreness afterwards is normal and is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?

Most people feel much better within three to five days. The gum continues to heal over the following weeks.

Can I go back to work or school the next day?

Many people return after a simple extraction the next day. After surgical wisdom tooth removal, plan for one to two days of rest.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket happens when the blood clot is lost too early and the bone is exposed. It causes throbbing pain a few days after the extraction. Following the aftercare steps lowers the risk. Call us if you think you have one.

I have a broken tooth and I’m in pain. Can you see me quickly?

Yes. Call us as soon as possible. See our emergency dental care page for what to do in the meantime.

How many wisdom teeth can be removed at once?

It depends on the position of the teeth and your comfort. Some patients have all four removed in one visit, while others prefer one side at a time so they can chew on the other side while healing.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

Stick to soft, cool or lukewarm foods for the first few days, such as yogurt, soup, scrambled eggs and pasta. Avoid crunchy, spicy or very hot foods, and do not use a straw for the first 24 hours.

Do I need a referral to have a tooth removed?

No. You can book an assessment with us directly. We will take X-rays and explain whether the tooth should be removed here or by a specialist.

Do I need to be sedated for oral surgery?

Most extractions are done comfortably with local freezing alone. If you feel anxious or need several teeth removed, ask about sedation options. If you are sedated, plan for someone to drive you home.

What should I avoid after oral surgery?

For the first 24 hours, avoid smoking, alcohol, hard exercise, hot drinks, straws and vigorous rinsing. These can increase bleeding or dislodge the blood clot. Follow the written instructions we give you and call us if anything seems wrong.

Book a Consultation

If a tooth is bothering you or you have questions about your wisdom teeth, contact Sapperton Dental at 301 East Columbia Street #105, New Westminster, near Sapperton SkyTrain Station and Royal Columbian Hospital. Call 604-544-0894 or request an appointment.